Spiritual Heart of Armenia: Etchmiadzin & Zvartnots
Explore the soul of Armenia through its sacred sites on this unforgettable journey to the country’s religious center. Begin with visits to St. Hripsime and St. Gayane, two 7th-century churches that honor the early martyrs of Christianity in Armenia. Continue to the Mother Cathedral of Etchmiadzin, the oldest state-built cathedral in the world, before viewing priceless holy relics in the Treasures of Etchmiadzin Museum. Conclude with the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, once one of the grandest churches of the early Christian world. Enhance your pilgrimage with an optional Armenian lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can reflect and refuel with traditional flavors.
Book Your Private Tour
Sample Itinerary
Built in 618 AD, this masterpiece of Armenian architecture is one of the country’s oldest surviving churches and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It commemorates the martyrdom of St. Hripsime, a Roman nun who fled persecution and became one of Armenia’s earliest Christian heroines. The church’s severe elegance and deep history create a quiet, reverent atmosphere.
A short walk away is St. Gayane Church, built in 630 AD in honor of another Roman nun martyred alongside Hripsime. Known for its harmony and grace, it remains a functioning house of worship and a site of peaceful reflection. Together, these two churches embody the courage and conviction of Armenia’s earliest Christians.
Founded in 301 AD after Armenia became the first Christian nation, the Mother Cathedral is the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Though currently under restoration, the surrounding grounds, chapels, and ceremonial buildings are open and inspiring. This is the beating heart of Armenian Christianity, revered by locals and pilgrims from around the world.
Located within the cathedral complex, this museum houses sacred relics, including the Holy Lance (believed to have pierced Christ’s side), ancient manuscripts, vestments, and other treasures of the Armenian Church. A short guided visit offers insight into Armenia’s role in early Christian history and its deep spiritual heritage.
Your final stop is the 7th-century ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, once a massive domed church admired for its innovation and scale. Though toppled by an earthquake centuries ago, the towering stone columns and surviving decorations evoke the grandeur of medieval Armenian architecture. With Mount Ararat often visible in the background, it’s a poetic place to end the tour.
Enjoy a relaxed meal at a nearby restaurant featuring local dishes such as khorovats (barbecue), dolma, fresh herbs, lavash, and fruit compote. A perfect way to close out a day of spiritual discovery.
Inclusions
- Professional driver
- Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
- Free pick-up and drop-off within Yerevan
- Extra photo or rest stops upon request
Exclusions
- Admission to sights and event tickets
- Travel or passenger insurance
- Lunch (unless otherwise selected)
- Guide (unless otherwise selected)
- Audio guide devices
- Wi-Fi in the vehicle
- Significant deviations from the planned route
One-day tours must be booked at least 3 days in advance.
A 20% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your tour.
The remaining balance must be paid in full before the tour date unless otherwise agreed.
Accepted payment methods: credit/debit card (3% processing fee), or cash with prior agreement.
All prices are listed in USD.
Late Bookings
Bookings made within 24 hours of departure are subject to availability and may incur a $20 rush fee.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
All cancellations must be submitted in writing. Refunds are based on the total paid, excluding the non-refundable deposit:
More than 48 hours before the tour: Refund of the remaining balance, minus the deposit and 3% processing fee
24–48 hours before: 50% refund of the remaining balance (deposit non-refundable)
Less than 24 hours or no-show: No refund
If 2BY2 cancels the tour (e.g., due to weather or unforeseen circumstances), a full refund or rescheduling will be offered.
Tour Duration & Additional Hours
Tour times are approximate and may vary by 1–2 hours due to traffic or site conditions.
If the tour is extended by 2+ hours at your request, a fee of 5,000 AMD per hour applies.
Group Size & Vehicle Assignment
Pricing is based on a minimum number of participants (specified per tour).
If the minimum is not met, 2BY2 reserves the right to reschedule, adjust pricing, or modify the itinerary.
Vehicle type is assigned based on group size and tour logistics.
Pickup Options
Pickup for private tours is available from your hotel or address within Yerevan.
Included / Not Included
What’s included will be listed in your booking confirmation and may include:
- Private transport and driver
- Licensed tour guide (if selected)
- Entry tickets (if selected)
- Meals or tastings (if selected)
Unless specified, the following are not included:
- Tips for guide/driver (suggested: $5–10 per person)
- Meals, drinks, or entrance fees not listed
- Personal purchases or optional activities
Additional stops or upgrades not arranged in advance.
Vehicle Rules
For the comfort of all guests, food, alcohol, coffee, tea, and tobacco are not permitted in the vehicle. Only water is allowed.
Lost or Forgotten Items
2BY2 is not responsible for any personal items lost, left behind, or damaged during the tour or in the vehicle.
Clothing & Etiquette
Modest dress is required for visits to churches or monasteries.
Women should bring a headscarf; revealing attire is discouraged.
Physical Fitness & Site Access
Some locations may require stairs, uneven terrain, or extended walking.
If you have mobility issues, please contact us before booking.
Weather Advisory
Weather can vary between Yerevan and other regions. Please dress in layers and come prepared for sun, wind, or rain.
Recommended Packing List
We suggest bringing:
- Closed-toe walking shoes
- Hat/cap and sunglasses
- Rain jacket or warm layer
- Sunscreen
- Water and light snacks (if not included)
- Personal medications
- Flashlight (for cave/nature tours)
- Extra socks or shoes
- Hiking sticks (if needed)
Additional Stops
Requests for unscheduled stops must be arranged in advance and may incur additional fees.
By booking and participating in a tour with 2BY2, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
Assumption of Risk
Tour activities involve risks, including travel, walking on uneven terrain, changing weather, and outdoor exposure. You voluntarily accept all risks and agree to participate at your own discretion.
Medical Authorization
You affirm that you (and anyone you’re booking for) are physically able to participate. In a medical emergency, 2BY2 may arrange treatment if your emergency contact is unreachable. You agree to cover all medical costs.
Third-Party Services
2BY2 may utilize third-party services (e.g., drivers, guides, attraction operators). We are not responsible for their actions, delays, or closures.
Attractions such as the Wings of Tatev cable car may close without notice. 2BY2 is not liable for missed third-party services, and no refunds will be issued for closures beyond our control.
Release of Liability
You agree to release and hold harmless 2BY2, its team, affiliates, and service partners from any liability for injury, loss, or damage that may occur during the tour, including those caused by third parties or force majeure.
Photography & Media
You grant 2BY2 permission to use photos or videos taken during the tour for marketing. To opt out, please notify us in writing before the tour.
Lost or Damaged Items
2BY2 is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings.
Governing Law & Acknowledgment
Governing Law
This agreement is governed by the laws of the Republic of Armenia.
Severability Clause
If any provision is found invalid or unenforceable under Armenian law, the rest of the agreement remains fully valid.
Acknowledgment
By booking a tour, you confirm that you have read and understood all terms and agree to them willingly. You waive any future legal claims against 2BY2 to the fullest extent permitted by law.
